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A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was obliged to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“While it could possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the property but considerable monetary input,” the operator added.

In a later statement, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been put down.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were worsening. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the park had previously indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have indicated willingness in buying the property and providing for the lions. While the deadline is tight and the circumstances remain unresolved, we are doing everything we can to pursue this opportunity and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their specialized requirements.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by messages from the community, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while ex-employees expressed desire that the facility would reconsider the course of action to put them down.

The director noted that amid the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also been subjected to threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she remarked. “We understand that emotions are high, but we request kindness and decency as we manage this heartbreaking circumstance.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the determination to humanely kill the cats lay with the landowners, and that it had been informed of the plan.

A high-ranking officer commented that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with wildlife regulations.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done correctly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it featured on a television show about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it quickly ran into problems. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often encountered economic issues and workforce challenges, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the government agency ordered the facility to close until the habitats were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.